I’ve always been a bit of a coward. My list of fears is extensive, encompassing everything from creepy crawlies and birds to various social situations and even the simple act of speaking up in groups larger than four. Trying new things? Forget it. Don’t even get me started on clowns or the dark. Phone calls? No thank you. You see where I’m going with this.
As an introvert and a chronic worrier, these traits have combined to create one huge ball of anxiety. For three decades, I lived comfortably within my safe little bubble, avoiding exposure to my numerous fears. That all changed when I became a parent. On a frigid day 20 months ago—literally freezing at -40 degrees—I entered motherhood. Since then, my children have compelled me to shed my cowardice and embrace bravery. Here are five ways they do this daily:
1. Goodbye Comfort Zones
Motherhood has made it abundantly clear that comfort zones have no place in parenting. Sure, comfort food is a thing, but comfort zones? Not so much. The labor and delivery room was where my comfort zone met its demise. Now, being a parent means donning bunny ears in public and breaking into spontaneous dance moves at the grocery store. It’s about singing silly songs at the library and making goofy faces at the park. Letting my inner child run wild is far more exhilarating than clinging to my comfort zone.
2. Ditching the Worry About Others
Before I became a parent, others’ opinions weighed heavily on me—family, friends, even strangers. But once I stepped into the role of a mom, I realized that if my kids are dressed, fed, and reasonably happy, that’s all that matters. Some days, I leave the house in yogurt-stained leggings and without a shower, and you know what? It doesn’t faze me anymore. My give-a-damn has been permanently recalibrated.
3. Daily Exposure Therapy
There’s no better way to confront your fears than through consistent exposure, and parenthood provides that in spades. Don’t like making calls? Too bad; you’ll need to schedule 20 appointments for your kids. Uncomfortable in new places? Welcome to your child’s appointments in uncharted territory. Scared of snakes or spiders? Surprise! Your little one just caught one and is bringing it over for a cuddle. People pay good money for exposure therapy, but I get mine daily—free of charge.
4. Finding My Voice
Being an introvert and a people-pleaser, assertiveness isn’t my strong suit. However, parenting has pushed me to find my voice. This newfound assertiveness has been crucial in setting boundaries with my strong-willed child and advocating for my kids when they can’t speak for themselves. This small act of bravery, while seemingly minor, is a powerful lesson I hope to pass on to them.
5. Chasing Dreams
I have aspirations for my children—dreams I once hesitated to pursue myself. Now, as a mom, I realize that the best way to inspire them to chase their dreams is to pursue my own. This means taking risks, stepping out of my comfort zone, and being vulnerable. Whether it’s asking for a promotion or considering going back to school, knowing my kids are watching me motivates me more than any paycheck or external validation could.
While these five acts of bravery may seem trivial compared to the more significant acts of courage we witness daily, I’ve learned that bravery comes in many forms. For this recovering coward, these small daily triumphs, inspired by my fearless children, feel like I’ve earned a superhero cape—or at least a permanent spot outside the confines of my comfort zone.
For more insights on parenting and insemination, check out this guide for home insemination kits or learn from experts about bath time tips. Additionally, the CDC offers excellent resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary: This article explores how motherhood has transformed my fears into acts of bravery, highlighting five key areas where my children inspire me to be courageous every day.